It’s the most wonderful time of the year

Now that we’ve made our way through most of November, it’s beginning to look a lot like… oh what’s that holiday? (You’ll think of it I’m sure.) Kids are out, overdressed in winter apparel so much so that they’re sweating. Adults are walking the streets as if every inch is covered in black ice. Yes, it truly is the most wonderful time of the year.

The Brenton Skating Plaza will open for the season on Friday, Nov. 20 from noon – 11 p.m.

Bump up your winter cheer with a little fun and festivities at Brenton Skating Plaza. This weekend marks the 10th anniversary of its opening, and downtown has seen its share of changes over the decade. Brenton Skating Plaza has become a tradition amongst friends and family who come together and skate.

“We provide a safe, family-friendly atmosphere,” said Kyle Oppenhuizen, communications project manager at Greater Des Moines Partnership. “Brenton Skating Plaza is another great amenity that adds to the fabric of Downtown Des Moines. We have become a best-in-class region with a best-in-class downtown, and Brenton Skating Plaza, along with so many other entertainment options, has added to that.”

Not much of a skater or haven’t laced up since your friend’s birthday party in grade school? Don’t worry about it. Whether you’re new to skating, brushing up or wanting to take your skating to the next level, Brenton Skating Plaza offers Learn To Skate classes for anyone interested (ages 4 and older). The enthusiastic instruction, along with the outdoor panoramic view of downtown, will make your skating lessons an experience to remember — especially if you’re spending more time on your butt than your skates!

Opening day will be Friday, Nov. 20 with all sorts of festivities taking place from noon to 11 p.m. A tree lighting and ice carving will be held to celebrate 10 years in the community. The tree was actually donated by an area resident who needed it cut and removed.

“Matt Kaldenberg with PBS Landscaping, and Boesen the Florist have been great sponsors to the Brenton Skating Plaza and are moving the tree downtown and providing the lights,” Oppenhuizen said.

The tree lighting ceremony will start at 6:10 p.m. with Santa Claus. Children can visit with Santa after the tree lighting and watch as the special ice carving is created. A food drive will also be held, so folks are asked to bring nonperishable food from opening day through the weekend and receive an ice scraper.

While most everyone is gearing up for opening weekend, it’s important to remember that Brenton Plaza will keep the merriment going throughout the season. For Kyle — and most — it’s hard to pick one reason why Brenton Skating Plaza is so special.

“The atmosphere of skating outdoors and seeing all the families and friends laughing and having a great time. Seeing young children take our Learn to Skate classes and are now playing hockey or advanced figure skating,” Oppenhuizen said. “Also all the proposals on ice; it is always fun to meet the couples. Our broomball league is fun to watch and work with — we have very dedicated players that have helped us grow. I also love to see teenagers enjoying the rink, meeting their friends and being in a healthy environment.” CV

Brenton Skating Plaza Opening Day

Friday, Nov. 20 from noon – 11 p.m.
Skate rental $4/pair.
Admission: $7 for adults. $5 for children (age 6-12) and seniors. Children 5 and younger are admitted free, and skate rental is $4.